Guv student regent appointee brings wealth of experience

Editor,

I write in support of Gov. Susana Martinez’ appointment of undergraduate political science major Jake Wellman.

I have had the opportunity to work with Wellman on the Student Fee Review Board (SFRB) in 2010-11.

Wellman always thoroughly reviewed the applications, met with constituency groups, asked insightful and tough questions during hearings and worked to reach consensus among board members. Wellman listened to all sides, deliberated over his decisions and did not come in to meetings with preconceived notions.

The Student Fee Review Board is, without question, one of the most important boards at UNM that a student can be a member of. Each year the board makes decisions about nearly $11 million in student fees to fund recurring programs such as the Student Health Center, Athletics, the Student Union Building, Popejoy Hall, Recreation Services and CAPS (the Center for Academic Programs and Support).

Last year’s board recommended funding for the new LGTBQ Resource Center, the Community Learning and Public Service program, the Research and Service Learning Program and the N.M. Public Interest Research Group. The board also recommended small cuts to Athletics, Recreation Services and Popejoy Hall.

Finally, the board recommended amendments to UNM Policy 1310, the policy that provides the rules for the SFRB, to allow for more flexibility in decision-making so as to allow priorities to be funded without increasing student fees.

Wellman was a leader in these debates, and it was not uncommon for him to present fully drafted amendments and to vote in favor of compromises that were hashed out after hours of deliberation.

Wellman also demonstrated initiative and determination when he turned ideas discussed at the SFRB into reality by spearheading the La Montañita Co-op on-campus effort.

I am confident Wellman will be a valuable addition to the UNM Board of Regents, and I look forward to having him represent students’ perspective in the decision-making process.

Lissa Knudsen
GPSA President